The Union Power Charitable Foundation’s (UPCF) first quarter of 2026 is already off to a meaningful start. We’re proud to announce our newest grant recipients. Three local organizations are doing remarkable work right here in Union and Stanly counties. At UPCF, we believe great organizations deserve great support. These grants will help local nonprofits expand programs, reach more neighbors, and continue the work that makes our communities stronger, healthier, and more connected. Simply put: when local organizations thrive, our communities thrive.
This quarter’s recipients represent the heart of community impact. Each organization focuses on improving lives and creating opportunities for those they serve. We’re honored to partner with them and help turn their vision into action. It’s time to meet the inspiring organizations leading the way.
LIFESPAN Services – Union County
LIFESPAN Services works every day to illuminate the abilities of children and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Through education, employment opportunities, and enrichment programs, the organization empowers individuals to live, work, and engage in their communities throughout their lifetime. With help from UPCF, these funds will directly support their Health Matters Program, where individuals monitor their health, stay active, and build lifelong wellness habits. LIFESPAN Services will purchase health and wellness equipment, including Fitbits, blood pressure cuffs, and exercise equipment, to help participants manage diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
Community Health Service – Union County
UPCF is honored to provide a grant to Community Health Services of Union County (CHSUC), a free clinic that provides personalized, high-quality care to Union County and Anson County residents in North Carolina, and Chesterfield and Lancaster County residents in South Carolina. This grant will impact over 2,000 uninsured patients, directly supporting those living with diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic diseases. With these funds, the proper equipment will be purchased to transport patients safely and provide 200 blood pressure cuffs for individuals to use at home.
“This will make a huge difference for us to be able to get equipment and truly help these uninsured patients,” expressed Cindy Cole, RN, CHSUC executive director.
Live Again Ministries – Stanly County
Founded on the cornerstone of building relationships, Live Again Ministries believes all individuals should be treated with dignity and respect, especially the most vulnerable and hurting populations in the community. Through their LEAF Program (Life Skills, Educational Success, Accountability, and Future Planning), Live Again Ministries provides after-school programming for at-risk middle school students in Stanly County. The program supports students who may be struggling academically or behaviorally, helping them build life skills, confidence, and a stronger path forward. With funding from UPCF, Live Again Ministries will work toward expanding the LEAF Program to an additional middle school in Stanly County.
UPCF is humbled to support organizations that make our community such a special place to live and serve. Their work reminds us that even small investments can spark big change.
Congratulations to our first grant recipients of 2026! We can’t wait to see the impact you create in the months ahead!
